Golden Semilarvatus Butterflyfish - Medium

Introduction: • Common Names: Golden Butterflyfish, Bluecheek Butterflyfish • Natural Habitat: Native to the Red Sea and parts of the western Indian Ocean, often found around coral reefs. Physical Characteristics: • Appearance: Bright golden-yellow body with delicate vertical stripes; has a distinct blue or black patch on the cheeks. • Size: Reaches up to 9.8 inches (25 cm) in length. • Lifespan: Can live 8-10 years or longer with optimal care in captivity. Habitat Requirements: • Tank Size: Minimum of 125 gallons to allow ample swimming space and territory. • Water Conditions: o Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C). o pH: 8.1-8.4. o Specific Gravity: 1.020-1.025. • Aquascaping: Needs a reef-like setup with caves and plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. Open areas for free swimming are also beneficial. Diet: • Primary Diet: Omnivorous; in the wild, it feeds on coral polyps, algae, and small invertebrates. • Supplemental Feeding: In an aquarium, a varied diet of high-quality marine-based foods is essential. Include frozen or live foods, as well as spirulina and specialized butterflyfish foods. • Feeding Frequency: Multiple small feedings per day to maintain energy levels and encourage natural foraging behavior. Compatibility: • Temperament: Peaceful but can be territorial with similar species. • Suitable Tank Mates: Compatible with other peaceful marine fish like angelfish, tangs, and certain wrasses. • Incompatibilities: Avoid housing with aggressive or overly territorial fish, as this may lead to stress and reduce feeding activity. Care Level: • Difficulty: Moderate to advanced; requires stable water quality and a varied diet to thrive. • Health Monitoring: Susceptible to marine ich and other parasitic infections, especially under stress or in poor water conditions. Breeding: • Breeding in Captivity: Very rare and challenging due to specific environmental needs. • Spawning: In the wild, pairs form to spawn, releasing eggs into the water where they float until hatching. Economic Considerations: • Market Demand: Highly desirable in the saltwater trade due to its vibrant color and unique appearance. • Pricing: Often on the higher end due to limited availability and popularity among advanced aquarists. Conclusion: The Golden Butterflyfish is a stunning and graceful species, bringing vibrant color and elegance to any large, well-maintained marine aquarium. Though challenging to keep, with the right care, this species can thrive, providing beauty and interest for experienced hobbyists.